The Ultimate Rebar Stand

A universal rebar stand design which will fit both 2x4 and 2x6 concrete forms.  Two of the most common size dimensions used for forming concrete slabs.  

My design places the rebar or the wire mesh panel into the approximate center of the slab--if using 2x4's or 2x6's for your slab formwork.  Most big box stores sell a basic universal stand for purchase.  However, the rebar in those designs is not centered within the slab--can be viewed as a design flaw.  The rebar ends up being too high or too low in the formwork or just one dimensional in application.  The big box stands are majorly sized for 2x6's formwork.  Thus, use of 2x4 formwork puts the rebar too high in the form.  When the cement truck shows up….is not the time to figure this issue out!   

• Rebar placed too high in the slab may “float” close to the slab surface during the pour and may become exposed on the surface.  Leading to surface rust from the iron rods leeching through thin embedding depth.  Also, the slab would be somewhat weaker at the lower portions of the slab--due to no reinforcement bar.  Leading to possible cracking from below--which will migrate to the top.     
• Rebar placed too low in the slab may become buried in the lower portion of the slab from the weight of wet concrete pushing down upon it during the pour.  Thus, providing limited reinforcement to the slab above it and will lead to potential cracks later on. 

IMO…The ideal location (as a general rule) for rebar placement is ½ the distance of the depth of the concrete form unless your (AHJ code) specifies differently.   

• I suggest printing the rebar stands in hi-visibility colors.  (Yellow, Orange, Lime Green, etc.) for easy visual observation that rebar supports are in place--before your slab pour.   
• The rebar clips designed for ½" diameter rod--provided to secure the rebar onto the supports without tie-ins. 
• The stands also accept wire mesh panels for reinforcement.  
• Openings are provided to allow concrete material to better flow into and around the rebar support stands--as the slab is being poured.